Tag: Politics

Travel

Goa Tourism Celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 with Grand Stakeholders’ Meet and Felicitations

Tanisha Cardozo

On September 27, 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, marked the culmination of month-long World Tourism Day celebrations with the largest-ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event brought together key leaders from the government, tourism industry, academia, influencers, and community-based tourism networks for a day of reflection, recognition, and renewed vision.

The Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, delivered a powerful address underlining the essential ecosystem that powers Goa’s tourism — from entrepreneurs and hoteliers to drivers, lifeguards, fishermen, and culinary professionals. Highlighting this year’s theme, he spoke about tourism not just as a business, but as a cultural expression and a shared identity that weaves together stories of the past and aspirations for the future. Emphasizing that Goa is more than just a beach destination, he reiterated the government’s commitment to making Goa a year-round, sustainable, and inclusive destination through initiatives like Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Shivaji Maharaja Digital Museum under the Swadesh Darshan program.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, further emphasized that the recognitions awarded on this day were not merely about individual accomplishments but were a celebration of the collective energy that drives Goa’s tourism forward. From students and professionals to influencers and tourism clubs, each individual recognized reflects Goa’s future as a regenerative tourism hub.

The prestigious Shri Vincent Ramos Scholarship was awarded to two meritorious students from the Institute of Hotel Management — Mackenzee Vas and Caitlyn Rosanne Mascarenhas — in the presence of Smt. Deena Ramos, honoring the late visionary’s legacy. Felicitations were also extended to Shri Pele and Shri Parag Ragnekar for their invaluable contributions to Goa Tourism. Noted influencers Smt. Scarlet M. Rose and Shri Moses J. Saldanha were recognized for their unique role in amplifying Goa’s tourism narrative. Additional appreciation was given to Smt. Shishti Sudin Prabhu Desai, Smt. Ashrafi Shetdesai Gaikwad, and Shri Viraj Phadte for their outstanding support.

Youth Tourism Clubs played a pivotal role in the celebrations, and their achievements were recognized through awards to Shri Shail Sawkar of Sridora Caculo College, Smt. Lisa Dias of IHM-Goa, and Dr. Kiran Gaude of P.E.S. Ravi S. Naik College.

The World Tourism Day celebrations will officially conclude with a Grand Finale one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), featuring films that celebrate Goa’s rich cultural and natural heritage. These efforts, led by the Department of Tourism, serve to amplify Goa’s broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches,” where tourism becomes a tool for storytelling, regeneration, and inclusive growth.

As stakeholders converged across disciplines and interests, the spirit of collaboration and gratitude defined the day — reinforcing Goa’s role as a global tourism leader embracing innovation, sustainability, and culture.

Events in Goa

19th Global Communication Conclave of PRCI Concludes Successfully in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

The 19th Global Communication Conclave of the Public Relations Council of India (PRCI) concluded with great success in Goa on September 27, 2025. Held over two days at a vibrant venue, the conclave drew eminent personalities from government, business, media, academia, and the creative industries, all united by a shared commitment to shaping the future of communication.

The Hon’ble Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, inaugurated the conclave, stressing the importance of credibility, authenticity, and ethics in modern communication. He spoke about communication’s growing influence in governance and business, and its power to build trust and transparency.

Later that evening, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa graced the Chanakya Awards function, congratulating participants and underlining how this year’s theme—“Power of PR: Emerging Waves of Communication”—captures the shift towards digital innovation, purposeful storytelling, and engagement that is real, timely, and impactful. He encouraged all present to raise the bar in ethical communication.

Mr. M B Jayaram, Chairman Emeritus of PRCI, praised the conclave’s successful execution and the quality of discourse, calling it a milestone for the communication fraternity. National President Ms. Geeta Shankar echoed this sentiment, commending the organizers and highlighting the value of such events in uniting professionals and inspiring progress.

The conclave featured lively panels and talks on topics such as Public Relations and Technology, Political Communication, PR and Leadership, Youth Engagement, and Global Communication Trends. Renowned speakers included corporate leaders, TEDx speakers, and academicians like Professor Mathew Hibberd from Switzerland. Other prominent guests included film producer Pramod Shetty, Rtn. Dr. Srinivasan, and Kaayan Kalthia of KosolEnergie.

The Chanakya Awards recognized top achievers in the field. Dr. Siba Prasad Mohanty of Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd. was awarded CEO of the Year (Joint Ventures), while Irfan Rashid of REC Limited received the Jury Special Award for Promising Corporate Communicator of the Year. VSR Naidu was inducted into the PR Hall of Fame, acknowledging his lasting contributions to the field.

Alongside, the PRCI Excellence Awards 2025 drew entries from over 100 leading corporates, celebrating creativity, impact, and innovation in corporate communication. The awards ceremony was honored by Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly.

A special cultural performance titled “Gomantarang” was showcased by the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Goa, adding a vibrant, traditional touch to the conclave’s atmosphere.

The conclave’s success was made possible by the efforts of the PRCI Goa Chapter, under the leadership of Chairman Deepak Narvekar and his dedicated team including Waman Prabhu, Gurunath Pai, Nikhil Wagh, Kalika Bapat, Nikita Chodankar, John Agular, Anant Joshi, John Samuel, Raj Britto, Vrundavan Raikar, and Sandeep Kamble. Their tireless work ensured a meaningful and memorable experience for all attendees.

The 19th Global Communication Conclave reaffirmed PRCI’s mission to foster excellence, encourage dialogue, and advance the profession of communication across sectors. It stood as a testament to the collaborative spirit of the industry, and its potential to lead meaningful change in society and business.

Fit & Fabulous

Kai Trump Launches Fashion Brand with White House Photoshoot Backdrop

Tanisha Cardozo

Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of US President Donald Trump, has launched her own clothing brand—marking the occasion with a high-profile photoshoot staged on the White House lawn. Dressed in a £105 ($130) sweatshirt from her debut collection, Kai stood beside her grandfather as he spoke to reporters outside the iconic residence, blending family legacy and entrepreneurial ambition into a headline-making moment.

The self-named brand features minimalistic crew-neck sweatshirts embroidered with Kai’s initials on the chest and her signature stitched at the cuff. Promotional photos, some taken on the White House grounds, were released on the brand’s official website and social media channels. Her appearance during the press briefing, just ahead of a trip with President Trump to the Ryder Cup tournament aboard Marine One, added to the launch’s symbolic significance.

“This is Kai, by the way,” Trump said, introducing her to the gathered press. She previously appeared at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where she gave a short speech, signaling her increasing visibility in the public eye. An accomplished junior golfer, Kai is set to join the University of Miami’s golf team next year.

The move has raised fresh questions about the intersection of public office and private enterprise. President Trump, now serving his second term, has been widely criticized in the past for promoting Trump-branded merchandise and allegedly using the presidency to support his family’s various business ventures—from real estate and hotels to cryptocurrencies. With Kai’s launch adding fashion to the mix, scrutiny is once again falling on the blending of political capital and commercial gain.

Adding to the intrigue, reports suggest that Kai’s mother is now in a relationship with golf legend Tiger Woods, further entwining the Trump family narrative with celebrity culture and sport.

Kai’s fashion launch may mark the beginning of a broader generational shift in the Trump brand—one rooted in a fusion of minimal style, athletic ambition, and strategic visibility in the highest corridors of power.

Entertainment

Jimmy Kimmel Returns with Emotional Monologue on Trump, Charlie Kirk, and Free Speech

Tanisha Cardozo

Jimmy Kimmel returned to television after a week-long suspension, and his reappearance was anything but subtle. Greeted with overwhelming applause and a near standing ovation, the late-night host stepped onto the stage of “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and delivered a heartfelt and pointed 20-minute monologue that quickly went viral.

His return comes in the wake of controversy following remarks he made surrounding the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and prominent supporter of Donald Trump. Kirk was gunned down while speaking at Utah Valley University—a moment that sent shockwaves across political and media landscapes. Kimmel’s earlier commentary, which many on the right perceived as dismissive or politicized, had triggered backlash that led to his temporary removal from the air by ABC.

Visibly emotional and holding back tears, Kimmel clarified his intentions. “It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man,” he said earnestly. “Nor was it my intention to blame any specific group for the actions of what was obviously a deeply disturbed individual.” The comedian praised Kirk’s widow, Erica, for her public act of forgiveness, calling it “extraordinary” and adding, “I hope it can be that.”

However, Kimmel didn’t stop at contrition. He directly criticized ABC affiliates for taking his show off the air, calling the move “un-American.” He was unapologetic in his critique of Donald Trump, who had called for Kimmel’s show to be canceled permanently. “He tried his best to cancel me, and instead he forced millions of people to watch this show,” Kimmel said, noting that the attempt to silence a comedian from the highest office in the land sets a chilling precedent. “A government threat to silence a comedian the President doesn’t like is anti-American,” he added.

Kimmel also mocked Trump’s reaction on social media, where the former President called ABC a “true bunch of losers” and jeered at Kimmel’s ratings. “The President of the United States made it very clear he wants to see me and the hundreds of people who work here fired from our jobs,” Kimmel said, his voice firm but emotional.

The suspension sparked its own controversy, with public outcry coming not just from Hollywood and the media, but also from political figures—including Republican Senator Ted Cruz—who questioned the network’s decision. Ultimately, the backlash pressured ABC to reinstate Kimmel, leading to his dramatic return.

Kimmel closed his monologue with a reflection on comedy, politics, and humanity. It was an unusually raw, emotional moment for late-night television—and a reminder of the power of free speech, even in the most polarized times.

Books & Literature

Zilu Gaonkar Urges Citizens to Use Govt Schemes and Promote Konkani Language

Tanisha Cardozo

Konkani writer, publisher, and teacher Zilu Gaonkar made a compelling appeal for citizens to adopt Konkani in their day-to-day lives and correspondence while encouraging greater awareness and use of government-supported language schemes. Speaking at a special Seva Pakhwada awareness program held at Government College, Khandola, he emphasized that the Directorate of Official Language provides Konkani language training for government employees and that it is now time for the public to follow suit by promoting and preserving the language through daily use.

The event was organized by the Directorate of Official Language in collaboration with the college and aimed to spread awareness of various language development schemes under the guidance of Goa’s Chief Minister and Minister for Official Language, Dr. Pramod Sawant.

Dr. Seema Salgaonkar, Vice Principal of Government College, welcomed the gathering and noted that preserving our mother tongue is a responsibility that lies with each of us. Meghnath Parab, Director of the Directorate of Official Language, cited the example of Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, a distinguished figure from Mashel who received his early education in his mother tongue and went on to achieve national prominence.

Deputy Director Anil Sawant provided detailed insights into key schemes run by the department including “Amcho Gãv, Amchi Parampara, Ani Amchem Daiz” (Our Village, Our Traditions, and Our Heritage), the Language Development Scheme, and the Language Awards Scheme.

Senior Translator Seby Fernandes discussed the opportunities available in language-related careers in India and explained the work being done at the Directorate. Junior Translator Sneha Sabnis highlighted efforts in terminology creation and the translation of knowledge-based books into Konkani, making academic and professional content more accessible in the regional language.

Anil Sawant also expressed his thanks to all participants and attendees. The event was anchored by Konkani Professor Kiran Palkar and Hindi Professor Sachi Naik, with a large presence of students, faculty members, and parents — showing that language revival and promotion remain a shared concern across generations.